Panel junction attachments for use in a structure with integrated insulation

ABSTRACT

A structure with integrated insulation. The structure with integrated insulation includes a steel frame. The steel frame includes a first support beam and a second support beam. The structure with integrated insulation also includes an assembly with integrated insulation. The assembly with integrated insulation includes a first building panel with integrated insulation, the first building panel with integrated insulation being attached to the first support beam on the first surface of the first building panel with integrated insulation. The assembly with integrated insulation also includes a second building panel with integrated insulation. The second building panel with integrated insulation 4 includes an indentation in the first surface configured to receive at least a portion of the first building panel with integrated insulation. The second building panel with integrated insulation being attached to the second support beam on the second surface of the second building panel with integrated insulation.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser.No. ______, filed on Feb. 5, 2014 (Attorney Docket No. 10457.1), andentitled, “STRUCTURE WITH INTEGRATED INSULATION”, which application isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety (hereinafter “firstrelated application”).

This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser.No. ______, filed on Feb. 5, 2014 (Attorney Docket No. 10457.2), andentitled, “ATTACHMENT COMPONENTS FOR SECURING PORTIONS OF A STRUCTUREWITH INTEGRATED INSULATION TO ONE ANOTHER”, which application isincorporated herein by reference in its entirety (hereinafter “secondrelated application”).

This application is related to co-pending U.S. patent application Ser.No. ______, filed on Feb. 5, 2014 (Attorney Docket No. 10457.4), andentitled, “THERMAL BREAKS WITHIN A STRUCTURE WITH INTEGRATEDINSULATION”, which application is incorporated herein by reference inits entirety (hereinafter “third related application”).

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Pre-fabricated buildings offer a number of conveniences. For example,because they use manufactured materials (such as metals), the amount ofwaste is often reduced relative to on-site building projects. This helpsto reduce the cost for the consumer. In addition, pre-fabricatedbuildings install quickly, sometimes within a few hours. This allowsthem to be put up when an immediate need arises. For example, they canact as temporary housing or storage while a more permanent structure isconstructed. They can then be moved, in some cases, to a new location.

Nevertheless, pre-fabricated buildings suffer from a number ofdrawbacks. For example, they are mass produced, reducing the ability ofthe consumer to design a building specifically for his/her needs.Moreover, they are more difficult to customize after the fact. Inparticular, they often do not have walls or other locations wherematerials can be attached or hung. This means that customization isoften a more labor intensive process.

In addition, pre-fabricated buildings often are less energy efficientthan other buildings. I.e., because the pieces are made to fit togetherquickly, there are often gaps or other areas that allow air to eitherenter or exit the building. This makes the building more difficult toheat or cool and to prevent drafts. Also, they may be made of sheetmetal or other materials that act as good thermal conductors, allowingheat transfer into or out of the conditioned space. This means that theheat or air conditioning is often set to a more extreme temperature asusers try to ensure a comfortable space.

Finally, pre-fabricated buildings are often not as sturdy as otherbuildings. For example, they may be made of sheet metal or plywood.Therefore, they are often used only as temporary buildings and morepermanent structures must be built if the disadvantages outweigh theadvantages.

Accordingly, there is a need in the art for a pre-fabricated buildingthat can be customized to the needs of the user, both in the design andbuilding process and after installation is complete. Further, there is aneed in the art for the pre-fabricated building to be energy efficient,both by reducing thermal conductivity and by eliminating any gaps.Moreover, there is a need for the pre-fabricated building to be sturdyenough to act as a permanent structure, if so desired.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

This Summary is provided to introduce a selection of concepts in asimplified form that are further described below in the DetailedDescription. This Summary is not intended to identify key features oressential characteristics of the claimed subject matter, nor is itintended to be used as an aid in determining the scope of the claimedsubject matter.

One example embodiment includes a structure with integrated insulation.The structure with integrated insulation includes a steel frame. Thesteel frame includes a first support beam and a second support beam. Thestructure with integrated insulation also includes an assembly withintegrated insulation. The assembly with integrated insulation includesa first building panel with integrated insulation. The building panelwith integrated insulation includes a first surface, a second surface,wherein the second surface is opposite the first surface, a first edge,wherein the first edge is disposed between the first surface and thesecond surface and a second edge, wherein the second edge is disposedbetween the first surface and the second surface and is opposite thefirst edge. The first building panel with integrated insulation beingattached to the first support beam on the first surface of the firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation, wherein the attachmentbetween the first support beam and the first building panel withintegrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety of the web ofthe first support beam in contact with the first building panel withintegrated insulation. The assembly with integrated insulation alsoincludes a second building panel with integrated insulation. Thebuilding panel with integrated insulation includes a first surface, asecond surface, wherein the second surface is opposite the firstsurface, a first edge, wherein the first edge is disposed between thefirst surface and the second surface and a second edge, wherein thesecond edge is disposed between the first surface and the second surfaceand is opposite the first edge. The second building panel withintegrated insulation also includes an indentation in the first surfaceconfigured to receive at least a portion of the first building panelwith integrated insulation. The second building panel with integratedinsulation being attached to the second support beam on the secondsurface of the second building panel with integrated insulation, whereinthe attachment between the second support beam and the second buildingpanel with integrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety ofthe web of the second support beam in contact with the second buildingpanel with integrated insulation.

Another example embodiment includes a structure with integratedinsulation. The structure with integrated insulation includes a steelframe. The steel frame includes a first support beam and a secondsupport beam. The structure with integrated insulation also includes anassembly with integrated insulation. The assembly with integratedinsulation includes a first building panel with integrated insulation.The building panel with integrated insulation includes a first surface,a second surface, wherein the second surface is opposite the firstsurface, a first edge, wherein the first edge is disposed between thefirst surface and the second surface and a second edge, wherein thesecond edge is disposed between the first surface and the second surfaceand is opposite the first edge. The first building panel with integratedinsulation being attached to the first support beam on the first surfaceof the first building panel with integrated insulation, wherein theattachment between the first support beam and the first building panelwith integrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety of theweb of the first support beam in contact with the first building panelwith integrated insulation. The assembly with integrated insulation alsoincludes a second building panel with integrated insulation. Thebuilding panel with integrated insulation includes a first surface, asecond surface, wherein the second surface is opposite the firstsurface, a first edge, wherein the first edge is disposed between thefirst surface and the second surface and a second edge, wherein thesecond edge is disposed between the first surface and the second surfaceand is opposite the first edge. The second building panel withintegrated insulation also includes an indentation in the first surfaceconfigured to receive at least a portion of the first building panelwith integrated insulation. The second assembly with integratedinsulation also includes a c-channel attached within the indentation,wherein the c-channel is configured receive the first edge of the firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation. The c-channel includesadhesive on the entire surface of the c-channel in contact with thesecond building panel with integrated insulation. The second buildingpanel with integrated insulation being attached to the second supportbeam on the second surface of the second building panel with integratedinsulation, wherein the attachment between the second support beam andthe second building panel with integrated insulation includes adhesiveover the entirety of the web of the second support beam in contact withthe second building panel with integrated insulation.

Another example embodiment includes a structure with integratedinsulation. The structure with integrated insulation includes a steelframe. The steel frame includes a first support beam and a secondsupport beam. The structure with integrated insulation also includes anassembly with integrated insulation. The assembly with integratedinsulation includes a first building panel with integrated insulation.The building panel with integrated insulation includes a first surface,a second surface, wherein the second surface is opposite the firstsurface, a first edge, wherein the first edge is disposed between thefirst surface and the second surface and a second edge, wherein thesecond edge is disposed between the first surface and the second surfaceand is opposite the first edge. The first building panel with integratedinsulation being attached to the first support beam on the first surfaceof the first building panel with integrated insulation, wherein theattachment between the first support beam and the first building panelwith integrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety of theweb of the first support beam in contact with the first building panelwith integrated insulation. The assembly with integrated insulation alsoincludes a second building panel with integrated insulation. Thebuilding panel with integrated insulation includes a first surface, asecond surface, wherein the second surface is opposite the firstsurface, a first edge, wherein the first edge is disposed between thefirst surface and the second surface and a second edge, wherein thesecond edge is disposed between the first surface and the second surfaceand is opposite the first edge. The second building panel withintegrated insulation also includes an indentation in the first surfaceconfigured to receive at least a portion of the first building panelwith integrated insulation. The second assembly with integratedinsulation also includes a c-channel attached within the indentation,wherein the c-channel is configured receive the first edge of the firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation. The c-channel includesadhesive on the entire surface of the c-channel in contact with thesecond building panel with integrated insulation. The second buildingpanel with integrated insulation being attached to the second supportbeam on the second surface of the second building panel with integratedinsulation, wherein the attachment between the second support beam andthe second building panel with integrated insulation includes adhesiveover the entirety of the web of the second support beam in contact withthe second building panel with integrated insulation. The structure withintegrated insulation additionally includes a backing secured within thesecond building panel with integrated insulation, the backing configuredto allow an external device to be attached to the second building panelwith integrated insulation.

These and other objects and features of the present invention willbecome more fully apparent from the following description and appendedclaims, or may be learned by the practice of the invention as set forthhereinafter.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

To further clarify various aspects of some example embodiments of thepresent invention, a more particular description of the invention willbe rendered by reference to specific embodiments thereof which areillustrated in the appended drawings. It is appreciated that thesedrawings depict only illustrated embodiments of the invention and aretherefore not to be considered limiting of its scope. The invention willbe described and explained with additional specificity and detailthrough the use of the accompanying drawings in which:

FIG. 1A illustrates an example of a T-beam for use with an interiorwall;

FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a T-beam for use with an exteriorwall;

FIG. 2A illustrates an example of a connection between I-beams which arein line relative to one another;

FIG. 2B illustrates an example of a connection between I-beams which arenot in line relative to one another;

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a connection between a post and awooden beam;

FIG. 4A illustrates a c-channel configured to receive an interior wallpanel;

FIG. 4B illustrates a c-channel configured to receive an exterior wallpanel;

FIG. 4C illustrates an angled c-channel configured to receive aninterior wall panel;

FIG. 4D illustrates an angled c-channel configured to receive anexterior wall panel;

FIG. 4E illustrates an indentation in a roof panel configured to receivean c-channel;

FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a c-channel junction of interior wallsforming a corner;

FIG. 5B illustrates an example of a c-channel junction of interior wallsforming a T-junction;

FIG. 5C illustrates an example of a c-channel junction of an interiorwall and an exterior wall forming a corner;

FIG. 5D illustrates an example of a c-channel junction of an interiorwall and an exterior wall forming a T-junction;

FIG. 6A illustrates an example of an angled c-channel for an interiorwall connected to an I-beam;

FIG. 6B illustrates an example of an angled c-channel for an exteriorwall connected to an I-beam;

FIG. 6C illustrates an example of a c-channel for an interior wallconnected to an I-beam;

FIG. 6D illustrates an example of a c-channel for an exterior wallconnected to an I-beam;

FIG. 6E illustrates a side view of an example of a c-channel (for aninterior wall or an exterior wall) connected to an I-beam;

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a sill plate attached to an I-beam;

FIG. 8A illustrates an example of a backing for a hose bib;

FIG. 8B illustrates an example of a backing for a roof vent;

FIG. 8C illustrates an example of a backing for a wall vent;

FIG. 8D illustrates an example of a backing for a light fixture;

FIG. 8E illustrates an example of a backing for a turtle vent;

FIG. 8F illustrates an example of a backing for a cabinet;

FIG. 8G illustrates an example of a backing for a toilet;

FIG. 8H illustrates an example of a backing for a shower head;

FIG. 8I illustrates an example of a backing for a floor drain;

FIG. 8J illustrates an example of a backing for hardware;

FIG. 8K illustrates an example of a backing for a light;

FIG. 8L illustrates an example of a backing for a hand rail;

FIG. 8M illustrates an example of a backing for a heat register;

FIG. 8N illustrates an example of a backing for a return air vent;

FIG. 8O illustrates an example of a backing for a closet rod; and

FIG. 8P illustrates an example of a backing for a stair header.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF SOME EXAMPLE EMBODIMENTS

Reference will now be made to the figures wherein like structures willbe provided with like reference designations. It is understood that thefigures are diagrammatic and schematic representations of someembodiments of the invention, and are not limiting of the presentinvention, nor are they necessarily drawn to scale.

FIGS. 1A and 1B (collectively “FIG. 1”) show a T-beam 100. FIG. 1Aillustrates an example of a T-beam 100 for use with an interior wall;and FIG. 1B illustrates an example of a T-beam 100 for use with anexterior wall. The T-beam 100 is a load-bearing structure with a “T”shaped cross section. The T-beam 100 can be used to support a wall panel(as described in first related application). The T-beam 100 can be madeof any desired material including wood, steel, aluminum or any otherdesired material. Additionally or alternatively, the installationpattern of the T-beam 100 can create a thermal break (as described inthird related application).

FIG. 1 shows that the T-beam 100 can include a flange 102. The flange102 remains outside of the wall panel, acting as a frame. The flange 102(the horizontal portion when viewed as a “T”) serves as a compressionmember in resisting compressive stresses. I.e., the flange 102 suppliesa vertical “holding” force within the structure frame. The flange 102can be approximately 2 inches wide. As used in the specification and theclaims, the term approximately shall mean that the value is within 10%of the stated value, unless otherwise specified.

FIG. 1 also shows that the T-beam 100 can include a web 104. The web 104(the vertical portion when viewed as a “T) serves to resist shear stressand to provide greater separation for the coupled forces of bending. Theweb 104 can be approximately 2 inches tall for use with an exterior wallpanel and approximately 1.5 inches tall for use with an interior wallpanel.

By way of example, a method of creating the T-beam 100 is describedherein. The T-beam 100 starts out as a flat sheet of 20 gage steel(standard). Flange 102 is approximately two inches wide. To make flange102 there will be two 180 degree bends, one on each end of the flange102 and one (1) 180 degree bend on the bottom of the web 104. The firstbend at the bottom of the top right side of the flange 102 is a onehundred and eighty (180) degree bend that is approximately seven eights(⅞″) of an inch that goes back to the center of the of flange 102. Thesecond bend is at the left of the flange 102. This one hundred andeighty (180) degree bend is one (1″) inch in length and goes back to thecenter of the T-beam 100. At the end of this one (1″) inch bend will bea ninety (90) degree bend that is one and one half (1½″) inches (2inches for an exterior wall) in length to create the web 104. At the endof the one and one half (1½″) inch web 104 on the T will be another onehundred and eighty (180) degree bend that will be one quarter (¼″) of aninch in length.

FIGS. 2A and 2B (collectively “FIG. 2”) illustrate an example of aconnection 200 between I-beams. FIG. 2A illustrates an example of aconnection 200 between I-beams which are in line relative to oneanother; and FIG. 2B illustrates an example of a connection 200 betweenI-beams which are not in line relative to one another. An I-beam, alsoknown as H-beam, W-beam (for “wide flange”), Universal Beam (UB), RolledSteel Joist (RSJ), or double-T (especially in Polish, Bulgarian,Spanish, Italian and German), is a beam with an I- or H-shapedcross-section. The horizontal elements of the “I” are flanges, while thevertical element is termed the web. The I-shaped section is a veryefficient form for carrying both bending and shear loads in the plane ofthe web.

FIG. 2 shows that the connection 200 includes a plate 202. The plate 202is a piece of structural steel or other material. The plate 202 isconfigured to be secured to each of the I-beams which secures theI-beams relative to one another. I.e., the plate 202 is of sufficientsize and strength to ensure that the load placed on the intersection ofthe I-beams is sufficiently secured, as if the gap did not exist. I.e.,ideally there is no loss of strength at the intersection secured by theplate 202. Each I-Beam will have four (4) pre drilled holes to attach tothe plate 202. A total of eight (8) rivets will be used to secure thetwo I-Beams together at the ridge line, hips and valleys. As used in thespecification and the claims, the phrase “configured to” denotes anactual state of configuration that fundamentally ties recited elementsto the physical characteristics of the recited structure. As a result,the phrase “configured to” reaches well beyond merely describingfunctional language or intended use since the phrase actively recites anactual state of configuration.

FIG. 3 illustrates an example of a connection 300 between a post 302 anda wooden beam 304. The post (as described in second related application)is a structural element that can be attached to the end of a wall panel.The connection 300 allows the post to act as a support for the woodenbeam 304. The wooden beam 304 acts to support the elements mounted abovethe wooden beam 304, such as another floor of the structure, a roof orany other element.

FIG. 3 shows that the connection 300 can include a plate 306. The plate306 is a piece of structural steel or other material. The plate 306 isconfigured to be secured to both the post 302 and the wooden beam 304securing the post 302 and the wooden beam 304 relative to one another.I.e., the plate 306 is of sufficient size and strength to ensure thatthe post 302 and the wooden beam 304 do not move relative to oneanother. The plate 306 is attached to the post 302 and the wooden beam304 using rivets, screws, adhesive or any other desired attachmentmethod.

FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C, 4D, and 4E (collectively “FIG. 4”) illustrate anexample of a c-channel 400. FIG. 4A illustrates a c-channel 400configured to receive an interior wall panel; FIG. 4B illustrates ac-channel 400 configured to receive an exterior wall panel; FIG. 4Cillustrates an angled c-channel 400 configured to receive an interiorwall panel; FIG. 4D illustrates an angled c-channel 400 configured toreceive an exterior wall panel; and FIG. 4E illustrates an indentation402 in a roof panel configured to receive an c-channel 400. Thec-channel 400 is a notch or groove that is shaped like a square “C”.I.e., it is a parallelogram with one side missing. If desired, thec-channel 400 can include a flange or other retaining mechanism near theopen side. I.e., the “missing side” of the parallelogram may bepartially missing only in order to better retain an external elementwithin the c-channel 400. The c-channel 400 can receive a wall panel (asdescribed in first related application) or some other structuralelement. E.g., a wall panel can be inserted into the c-channel 400 andthen glued or otherwise permanently attached, creating a connectionbetween the element containing the c-channel 400 and the elementinserted into the c-channel 400. The c-channel 400 can include a metalor wood brace. The c-channel 400 can be glued into an indentation 402cut out from a building panel with integrated insulation and/or attachedto a desired element (such as an I-beam, wooden beam) or glued withinthe c-channel of a building panel with integrated insulation, configuredto receive a wall panel.

The height of the c-channel 400 can be critical to create a thermalbreak (as described in third related application). For example, thec-channel 400 can be approximately 75% of the height of the indentation402 cut in the building panel with integrated insulation into which thec-channel 400 will be inserted. E.g., if the indentation 402 cut in thebuilding panel with integrated insulation is approximately 2 inches highthen the c-channel 400 can be approximately 1.5 inches high. Making thec-channel 400 smaller that the indentation 402 cut in the building panelwith integrated insulation can be critical to prevent a thermal bridgethat passes through the entire panel.

One of skill in the art will appreciate that the that the “width” of thec-channel 404 will be the horizontal width and which is not necessarilythe same as the size of the c-channel 400 as measured along the surfaceof the containing element, such as a roof panel. For example, the roofspitch is its vertical rise divided by its horizontal span (or “run”),what is called “slope” in geometry and stair construction, or thetangent function in trigonometry. It is typically expressed with therise first and run second, with the run denominated by the number 12,giving a ratio of how many inches of incline there is to each foot ofrun. For example, 3:12, 4:12, 5:12, and so on. To find the exact roofslope in degrees, one takes the arctangent. For example:arctan(3/12)=14.0°. One of skill in the art will appreciate that themeasured opening of the c-channel 400 in the roof panel with integratedinsulation 110 may not be the exact width of the wall panel. I.e.,because the roof panel with integrated insulation 110 may be installedat an angle the measured width along the surface of the roof panel withintegrated insulation 110 will be longer than a horizontal measurementat the installed angled. For example, if the roof has a pitch of 6/12(−26.6 degrees) then the measured opening along the surface of the roofpanel with integrated insulation 110 can be calculated by:

$\frac{w}{\cos \left( {\tan^{- 1}(p)} \right)} = {\frac{w}{\frac{1}{\sqrt{1 + p^{2}}}} = {w \times \sqrt{1 + p^{2}}}}$

where w is the horizontal width and p is the pitch expressed as afraction or a decimal. For example, if the pitch is 6/12 then theopening across the surface is 6×{square root over (1+(0.5)²)}=6.708inches for an exterior wall and 4.472 inches for an interior wall.

FIGS. 5A, 5B, 5C and 5D (collectively “FIG. 5”) illustrate examples ofc-channel junctions 500. FIG. 5A illustrates an example of a c-channeljunction 500 of interior walls forming a corner; FIG. 5B illustrates anexample of a c-channel junction 500 of interior walls forming aT-junction; FIG. 5C illustrates an example of a c-channel junction 500of an interior wall and an exterior wall forming a corner; and FIG. 5Dillustrates an example of a c-channel junction 500 of an interior walland an exterior wall forming a T-junction. Because the c-channels 400are configured to receive an external element, such as a wall panel,there will be places where c-channels 400 meet one another forming ajunction. The c-channel junction 500 can either be a corner (i.e., whereboth walls end) or a T-junction (i.e. one wall ends in the middle ofanother wall). The c-channel junction 500 is a bracket configured toreceive the wall panels at the intersection.

FIGS. 6A, 6B, 6C, 6D and 6E (collectively “FIG. 6”) illustrate anexample of a c-channel 400 connected to an I-beam 602. FIG. 6Aillustrates an example of an angled c-channel 400 for an interior wallconnected to an I-beam 602; FIG. 6B illustrates an example of an angledc-channel 400 for an exterior wall connected to an I-beam 602; FIG. 6Cillustrates an example of a c-channel 400 for an interior wall connectedto an I-beam 602; FIG. 6D illustrates an example of a c-channel 400 foran exterior wall connected to an I-beam 602; and FIG. 6E illustrates aside view of an example of a c-channel 400 (for an interior wall or anexterior wall) connected to an I-beam 602. A c-channel 400 connected toan I-beam 602 allows an I-beam 602 supporting an floor, roof or otherstructure to receive a wall panel with integrated insulation. I.e., thewall is created and the c-channel 400 can be placed over the wall panelsmaking up the wall, forming an intersection between the wall and flooror roof.

FIG. 6 shows that the c-channel 400 is attached to the flange of theI-beam 602 using a screw, nut and bolt, rivet, weld or other attachment.Rivets are a permanent mechanical fastener. Before being installed arivet consists of a smooth cylindrical shaft with a head on one end. Theend opposite the head is called the buck-tail. On installation the rivetis placed in a punched or drilled hole, and the tail is upset, or bucked(i.e., deformed), so that it expands to about 1.5 times the originalshaft diameter, holding the rivet in place. To distinguish between thetwo ends of the rivet, the original head is called the factory head andthe deformed end is called the shop head or buck-tail. Because there iseffectively a head on each end of an installed rivet, it can supporttension loads (loads parallel to the axis of the shaft); however, it ismuch more capable of supporting shear loads (loads perpendicular to theaxis of the shaft).

FIG. 7 illustrates an example of a sill plate 702 attached to an I-beam602. A sill plate 702 or sole plate in construction and architecture isthe bottom horizontal member of a wall or building to which verticalmembers are attached. The word plate is typically omitted in America andcarpenters speak simply of the “sill”. Other names are ground plate,ground sill, groundsel, and mud sill. The sill plate 702 is usuallycomposed of lumber but can be any material. The sill plate 702 typicallycarries the wall framing (posts and studs) and floor joists.

FIG. 7 shows that the sill plate 702 is attached to the I-beam 602 usingscrews 704. The screws 704 are threaded cylinders that secure the I-beam602 relative to the sill plate 702. I.e., the screw prevents separationand lateral motion of the I-beam 602 relative to the sill plate 702. Oneof skill in the art will appreciate that the I-beam 602 can be attachedto the sill plate 702 using any desired fastener, including bolts,rivets, adhesive, or any other desired fastener.

FIGS. 8A, 8B, 8C, 8D, 8E, 8F, 8G, 8H, 8I, 8J, 8K, 8L, 8M, 8N, 8O and 8P(collectively “FIG. 8”) illustrate an example of a backing 800 attachedto a structure with integrated insulation. FIG. 8A illustrates anexample of a backing 800 for a hose bib; FIG. 8B illustrates an exampleof a backing 800 for a roof vent; FIG. 8C illustrates an example of abacking 800 for a wall vent; FIG. 8D illustrates an example of a backing800 for a light fixture; FIG. 8E illustrates an example of a backing 800for a turtle vent; FIG. 8F illustrates an example of a backing 800 for acabinet; FIG. 8G illustrates an example of a backing 800 for a toilet;FIG. 8H illustrates an example of a backing 800 for a shower head; FIG.8I illustrates an example of a backing 800 for a floor drain; FIG. 8Jillustrates an example of a backing 800 for hardware; FIG. 8Killustrates an example of a backing 800 for a light; FIG. 8L illustratesan example of a backing 800 for a hand rail; FIG. 8M illustrates anexample of a backing 800 for a heat register; FIG. 8N illustrates anexample of a backing 800 for a return air vent; FIG. 8O illustrates anexample of a backing 800 for a closet rod; and FIG. 8P illustrates anexample of a backing 800 for a stair header. The backing 800 can includea sheet of wood or other material. The backing 800 acts as a brace orsupport for an external element to be mounted. The backing 800 can besecured to a building panel with integrated insulation, an I-beam, aT-beam or some combination thereof using adhesive, mechanical fastenersor any other desired attachment mechanism.

The backing 800 is secured to the structure with integrated insulationusing adhesive. In particular, the adhesive is applied to the entiretyof the surface of the backing 800 that is in contact with the structurewith integrated insulation. This ensures that air gaps are removed,minimizing thermal bridging. Additionally or alternatively, it ensuresthat the backing 800 remains in place regardless of any force that wouldbe applied by the external element.

The present invention may be embodied in other specific forms withoutdeparting from its spirit or essential characteristics. The describedembodiments are to be considered in all respects only as illustrativeand not restrictive. The scope of the invention is, therefore, indicatedby the appended claims rather than by the foregoing description. Allchanges which come within the meaning and range of equivalency of theclaims are to be embraced within their scope.

What is claimed is:
 1. A structure with integrated insulation, thestructure with integrated insulation comprising: a steel frame, thesteel frame including: a first support beam; and a second support beam;an assembly with integrated insulation, wherein the assembly withintegrated insulation: includes a first building panel with integratedinsulation, the building panel with integrated insulation including: afirst surface; a second surface, wherein the second surface is oppositethe first surface; a first edge, wherein the first edge is disposedbetween the first surface and the second surface; and a second edge,wherein the second edge is disposed between the first surface and thesecond surface and is opposite the first edge; the first building panelwith integrated insulation being attached to the first support beam onthe first surface of the first building panel with integratedinsulation, wherein the attachment between the first support beam andthe first building panel with integrated insulation includes adhesiveover the entirety of the web of the first support beam in contact withthe first building panel with integrated insulation; includes a secondbuilding panel with integrated insulation, the building panel withintegrated insulation including: a first surface; a second surface,wherein the second surface is opposite the second surface; a secondedge, wherein the second edge is disposed between the second surface andthe second surface; and a second edge, wherein the second edge isdisposed between the second surface and the second surface and isopposite the second edge; an indentation in the first surface configuredto receive at least a portion of the first building panel withintegrated insulation; and the second building panel with integratedinsulation being attached to the second support beam on the secondsurface of the second building panel with integrated insulation, whereinthe attachment between the second support beam and the second buildingpanel with integrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety ofthe web of the second support beam in contact with the second buildingpanel with integrated insulation.
 2. The structure with integratedinsulation of claim 1, wherein the first building panel with integratedinsulation includes a wall panel with integrated insulation.
 3. Thestructure with integrated insulation of claim 1, wherein the firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation includes a floor panel withintegrated insulation.
 4. The structure with integrated insulation ofclaim 1, wherein the first building panel with integrated insulationincludes a roof panel with integrated insulation.
 5. The structure withintegrated insulation of claim 1, wherein the first support beamincludes a T-beam.
 6. The structure with integrated insulation of claim1, wherein the first support beam includes an I-beam.
 7. A structurewith integrated insulation, the structure with integrated insulationcomprising: a steel frame, the steel frame including: a first supportbeam; and a second support beam; an assembly with integrated insulation,wherein the assembly with integrated insulation: includes a firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation, the building panel withintegrated insulation including: a first surface; a second surface,wherein the second surface is opposite the first surface; a first edge,wherein the first edge is disposed between the first surface and thesecond surface; and a second edge, wherein the second edge is disposedbetween the first surface and the second surface and is opposite thefirst edge; the first building panel with integrated insulation beingattached to the first support beam on the first surface of the firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation, wherein the attachmentbetween the first support beam and the first building panel withintegrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety of the web ofthe first support beam in contact with the first building panel withintegrated insulation; includes a second building panel with integratedinsulation, the building panel with integrated insulation including: afirst surface; a second surface, wherein the second surface is oppositethe second surface; a second edge, wherein the second edge is disposedbetween the second surface and the second surface; and a second edge,wherein the second edge is disposed between the second surface and thesecond surface and is opposite the second edge; and an indentation inthe first surface; a c-channel attached within the indentation, whereinthe c-channel is configured receive the first edge of the first buildingpanel with integrated insulation; wherein the c-channel includesadhesive on the entire surface of the c-channel in contact with thesecond building panel with integrated insulation; and the secondbuilding panel with integrated insulation being attached to the secondsupport beam on the second surface of the second building panel withintegrated insulation, wherein the attachment between the second supportbeam and the second building panel with integrated insulation includesadhesive over the entirety of the web of the second support beam incontact with the second building panel with integrated insulation. 8.The structure with integrated insulation of claim 7, wherein thec-channel is attached to the second support beam.
 9. The structure withintegrated insulation of claim 7 further comprising an adhesive, whereinthe adhesive covers the entire surface of the c-channel in contact withthe first building panel with integrated insulation.
 10. The structurewith integrated insulation of claim 7, wherein the c-channel isapproximately 4 inches wide and 1.5 inches high.
 11. The structure withintegrated insulation of claim 7, wherein the c-channel is approximately6 inches wide and 1.5 inches high.
 12. The structure with integratedinsulation of claim 7, wherein the c-channel includes a c-channeljunction.
 13. The structure with integrated insulation of claim 7,wherein the c-channel is angled to match the pitch of a roof.
 14. Thestructure with integrated insulation of claim 7 wherein the width of thec-channel is calculated using the equation:w ₁ =w×√{square root over (1+p ²)} where: w₁ is the width of thec-channel w is the width of the first building panel with integratedinsulation; and p is the pitch of the roof.
 15. A structure withintegrated insulation, the structure with integrated insulationcomprising: a steel frame, the steel frame including: a first supportbeam; and a second support beam; an assembly with integrated insulation,wherein the assembly with integrated insulation: includes a firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation, the building panel withintegrated insulation including: a first surface; a second surface,wherein the second surface is opposite the first surface; a first edge,wherein the first edge is disposed between the first surface and thesecond surface; and a second edge, wherein the second edge is disposedbetween the first surface and the second surface and is opposite thefirst edge; the first building panel with integrated insulation beingattached to the first support beam on the first surface of the firstbuilding panel with integrated insulation, wherein the attachmentbetween the first support beam and the first building panel withintegrated insulation includes adhesive over the entirety of the web ofthe first support beam in contact with the first building panel withintegrated insulation; includes a second building panel with integratedinsulation, the building panel with integrated insulation including: afirst surface; a second surface, wherein the second surface is oppositethe second surface; a second edge, wherein the second edge is disposedbetween the second surface and the second surface; and a second edge,wherein the second edge is disposed between the second surface and thesecond surface and is opposite the second edge; and an indentation inthe first surface; a c-channel attached within the indentation, whereinthe c-channel is configured receive the first edge of the first buildingpanel with integrated insulation; wherein the c-channel includesadhesive on the entire surface of the c-channel in contact with thesecond building panel with integrated insulation; the second buildingpanel with integrated insulation being attached to the second supportbeam on the second surface of the second building panel with integratedinsulation, wherein the attachment between the second support beam andthe second building panel with integrated insulation includes adhesiveover the entirety of the web of the second support beam in contact withthe second building panel with integrated insulation; and a backingsecured within the second building panel with integrated insulation, thebacking configured to allow an external device to be attached to thesecond building panel with integrated insulation.
 16. The structure withintegrated insulation of claim 15, wherein the backing includes a board.17. The structure with integrated insulation of claim 15, wherein thebacking is attached to the second support beam.
 18. The structure withintegrated insulation of claim 15, wherein the backing is glued to thesecond building panel with integrated insulation.
 19. The structure withintegrated insulation of claim 15, wherein the backing is flush with thefirst surface of the second building panel with integrated insulation.20. The structure with integrated insulation of claim 15, wherein thebacking is recessed relative to the first surface of the second buildingpanel with integrated insulation.